Cairns splurges on nail salon and cafe purchases despite cost of living crisis

Despite soaring cost of living pressures and crippling interest rate hikes, Far North residents can’t stop splurging on these everyday products. FIND OUT WHAT

THE high cost of living is no deterrent for Far Northerners who would rather fork out money than miss out on these two luxury items.

The ABS revealed that cosmetics and cafes were among the must haves for consumers to self soothe during trying times.

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Patricia O’Neill, CEO of Chamber of Commerce, said there has been a sustained upward trend for luxury goods with expenditure raised from $25M in July 2018 to $40M in April 2022.

“Consumers have not been able to spend their money on high value purchases such as international holidays, so have put their money to alternative uses,” she said.

Cairns Chamber of Commerce CEO Patricia O'Neill said Far Northerner’s are increasingly spending more on luxury items. Picture: Stewart McLean

“While our economy was in crisis, residents took to taking care of themselves with the money they would’ve spent elsewhere.

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“Cafes and cosmetics are quite low level discretionary spend. They are easy and relatively affordable ways to “treat” yourself,” Ms O’Neill said.

“Some individuals who “feel” they have been deprived of liberty/freedom, perhaps indulge in these spending behaviours to provide that feel good factor.”

Emi Ohkuma, owner of Naturally Me Nail and Beauty, has been in business for 19 years and said she has seen Far Northerner’s demand for beauty services increased over the years.

She attributed the demand and success of her business to how her nail service helped her customers reduce stress from their busy lives.

“When I started nail art in 2003, nail art was simple, people wanted to do just an acrylic extension set and colour,” she said.

“But nowadays, people are being more creative, choosing nail designs for their own lifestyle or special events.

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“My clients are having fun and enjoy thinking about a new design for their next visit.”

Now booked out in advance for most days, Ms Ohkuma said her customers came back in full swing after she closed over the Covid period.

“People came back for nail and beauty,” she said.

Tammy Nails Spa and Beauty owner Thi Be Nguyen said they are busy everyday with a continuous stream of customers.

Tammy’s Nails, Spa and Beauty employee May Her and Kewarra Beach resident Melynda Franstedt know why it’s good to splurge. Picture: Nuno Avendano

“There’s a lot,” she said.

Melynda Franstedt from Kewarra Beach is one of Tammy’s regulars and said it was necessary to take time to practice self care.

“Everyone’s normally very busy, it’s nice to take five minutes to get your nails done,” she said.

Originally published as Cairns splurges on nail salon and cafe purchases despite cost of living crisis